Subaru 50th Anniversary Heritage Editions

The love is shared across the brand’s lineup.

By Cherise Threewitt, Contributor, Car-ED.com | Mar 2018

This February marked the Subaru brand’s 50th anniversary of selling cars in the United States, so Subaru turned its Chicago Auto Show appearance into a celebration. Rumors of special editions began circulating late last year and proved true when the company unveiled the Heritage Edition lineup during the Chicago show’s media preview event.

What is this vehicle?

The 50th Anniversary Heritage Edition is a collection of Subaru models with an exclusive color and styling elements.

There will be 1,050 Heritage Edition models available for each of Subaru’s volume sellers, including the Outback (across the 2.5i and 3.6R trim levels), Forester (split amongst 2.5i Touring and 2.0XT models), Impreza (2.0i Limited sedans and 2.0i Limited hatchbacks), Legacy (2.5i Limited and 3.6R Limited), and Crosstrek (Limited). However, there are just 1,050 Heritage Edition models total across the WRX Limited, STI Limited, and BRZ Limited. WRX buyers have the best shot, since there are 600 of those, but there are only 250 Heritage Edition BRZs and just 200 Heritage Edition STIs.

Who is this vehicle for?

The Heritage Edition is primarily an appearance package, which makes it a fun option for a potential buyer who was already in the market for a new Subaru.

Why is this vehicle important to you, the buyer?

We wouldn’t suggest that you run out and buy a Heritage Edition Subaru if you weren’t already considering a Subaru as your next new vehicle. However, Subaru’s limited editions tend to hold value really well (and the Subaru WRX was the only car — that is, not an SUV or pickup — to earn a spot on the 2018 Best Resale Value Awards from Kelley Blue Book). These new editions don’t cost much more than a similarly-equipped Subaru from the regular production run, so you can enjoy the exclusivity now and maybe have an edge on the competition when it comes time to sell. And, if you’re looking at specifically at a WRX, STI, or BRZ, the sport seats look fantastic with the 50th anniversary logo embroidery.

Interesting facts about this vehicle!

Subaru’s first United States location was in Balboa Park, California
Subaru of America moved to New Jersey in 1970
1983, the company’s 15th anniversary, marked the sale of its millionth car
A total of 6,300 Heritage Editions were built across the brand’s model family

What Impressed Us / Top Likes:

1 – We really like that the Heritage Edition package is available across the brand’s whole lineup (well, except for the Ascent, which is not yet on sale). That means you don’t need to shell out big bucks for a performance car just to join in on the fun.

2 – The prices seem pretty reasonable. They’re expensive compared to the base models, but remember, most of the Heritage Editions are based on mid- or upper-level trims, so they also include extra features or more powerful engines in addition to the exclusive styling elements. Sharp-eyed readers may notice that the Heritage Edition WRX costs about $4,000 more than the WRX Limited that it’s based on, but additional accessories and options help account for most of that markup.

3 – The Recaro seats in the WRX and STI models are really, really nice. They’re comfortable and stylish, and the 50th Anniversary logo embroidery is a classy touch.

Items to Make Better (Least Favorite Things):

1 – On one hand, it’s nice that these limited editions are relatively affordable and Subaru isn’t using them as an excuse to gouge customers. On the other hand, some performance upgrades would be great.

2 – When rumors first began circulating that Subaru was releasing a special edition to mark its 50th anniversary, a lot of people expected the limited color would be gold (since gold is traditional for a 50th anniversary). The Heritage Blue Pearl color is nice and everything, but next to Subaru World Rally Blue Pearl and the brand’s extensive expertise in gray and off-gray hues, this limited edition doesn’t visually stand out as much as we’d like.

Segment and Competitors:

The Heritage Edition is available for every Subaru model except the all-new Ascent SUV. As such, there are a ton of competitors across the compact, midsize, crossover, wagon, and sports car categories.

Unique Specifications:

Each Subaru Heritage Edition model features new and exclusive Heritage Blue Pearl paint and 50th Anniversary Edition badging. Other special styling details include a unique wheel finish, silver side mirrors, silver grille surround, silver seatbelts, and silver contrast stitching on the upholstery. The WRX and STI both feature embroidered versions of their Recaro sport seats.

Pricing and Availability:

The most affordable Heritage Edition is the Impreza, which starts at $28,340. On the upper end is the WRX STI, which starts at $42,055. The Heritage Editions cost a little more than the regular lineup, although the markup varies slightly from model to model. The Subaru 50th Anniversary Heritage Editions went on sale in early February and will be available until they sell out.